- The Smyrna Vinings Steward
- Posts
- A $1 Dollar Dream Home in Cobb County?
A $1 Dollar Dream Home in Cobb County?
Uncovering hidden truths in your neighborhood
Ravi Patel
March 11, 2025
Dear Stewards
Welcome to the Smyrna Vinings Steward, your source for in-depth local news, economic analysis, and community empowerment.
Welcome to the inaugural issue!
We believe in the strength of our community and are committed to delivering trustworthy, prosperity-driven insights that matter to you.
In today’s edition:
Cobb County home sold for $1
Local Legends
Hidden Gems
The Stewards Watch
Community Voices
Events
Quote of the day
— Your neighbors
🪴Difference Makers
Showcasing prime examples of stewardship in action
How did this Cobb County home sell for just one dollar?
A piece of Cobb County history is on the move, quite literally. The historic McAfee House, a structure steeped in local lore, has been sold for a symbolic $1 and will be relocated to Ball Ground in Cherokee County.
The sale and relocation, first reported by Atlanta News First, have sparked community interest due to the home’s rich history and the unique circumstances surrounding its transfer.
A local couple, passionate about preserving historical architecture, purchased the McAfee House with the intent of giving it a new purpose in Cherokee County.
“We always loved this home, and always had fear that it would be torn down, …..we’re honored that we were chosen out of so many people to be entrusted in moving the home and saving its integrity.”
The move to Ball Ground will involve a complex logistical operation. The house will be carefully lifted and transported along designated routes, minimizing disruption to local traffic.
The relocation is expected to take place in the coming weeks, weather permitting.
“There is a right person out there who is going to be a good steward of this property”
The McAfee House's relocation highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve historical landmarks in the face of development and changing land also underscores the dedication of individuals and communities committed to safeguarding our heritage.
As the McAfee House embarks on its journey to Cherokee County, residents of both Cobb and Cherokee counties are watching with keen interest, eager to see this historic home find new life and purpose.
🦸🏻 Local Legend
Highlighting stories from hometown heroes
Bolivar Coffee breaking ground on second location
This expansion is a testament to the strength of our local businesses and the vibrant economic landscape we're building together.
At the Smyrna Vinings Steward, we recognize that the success of local businesses like Bolivar Coffee is vital to our community's prosperity.
We are so happy to share this dream with all of you! ❤️ It is all thanks to your support! …
Dreams do come true! You just have to work for them! ⭐
More Than Just Coffee:
Bolivar Coffee is known for its commitment to quality and community. They source their beans ethically, create welcoming spaces, and foster a sense of connection among their customers.
Their expansion to Marietta means more opportunities for residents to experience their exceptional coffee and community spirit.
What Our Community is Saying:
Bolivar Coffee is a welcoming and warm coffee shop. It is so cozy. Their Spinach Croissants are exquisite. My daughter had the Pastel Conquistador. Their host and manage, Jura, seems to know everyone's name. All their employees, like Sofia, are very customer oriented and hospitable.
Why This Expansion Matters:
Job Creation: The new location will provide valuable employment opportunities for local residents.
Economic Growth: Bolivar Coffee's expansion contributes to the overall economic vitality of our region.
Community Enrichment: Their commitment to creating welcoming spaces enhances the quality of life for our community.
Strengthening Regional Ties: Even though the new location is in Marietta, that strengthens the region as a whole.
Supporting Local Businesses:
By choosing to support businesses like Bolivar Coffee, we're investing in our community's future. We're creating a thriving local economy that benefits everyone.
Visit Bolivar Coffee Original Location:
Website: bolivarcoffee.com
Experience the Difference: Discover their unique coffee blends and welcoming atmosphere.
For updates on the new location, follow their Instagram
Discovering diamonds in the rough
Marrakech Express: A Taste of Tradition
Marrakech Express isn't just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey. From the fragrant tagines to the savory kebabs, each dish is prepared with care and authenticity.
The spices, the aromas, and the warm hospitality transport you to the bustling markets of Marrakech.
Georgia Department of Health Food Inspection score: 🎯 100 (Full report here)
“This is a family affair. We use no preservatives, colorants, additives, soy, curry, corn or MSG. Our meats and poultry are USDA approved and bought locally, free of hormones.
This is what we cook daily for our own family and we consider you our family - and we would not serve anything less.”
What Our Community is Saying:
“Amazing labor of love restaurant, highly recommended! Everything was amazing - the chicken shawarma pita wrap, the chicken tanjiva, the spicy hummus, both of the reas, ALL of it! The freshly made falafel was probably the best I’ve ever had. If you live within 30 minutes of here you owe it yourself to stop by.”
Why Support Marrakech Express?
Authentic Moroccan Cuisine: Experience the rich flavors of a unique culinary tradition.
Locally Owned and Operated: Supporting Marrakech Express means supporting our local economy.
Exceptional Customer Service: Enjoy a warm and welcoming dining experience.
Visit Marrakech Express Today!
Website: marrakech-eav.square.site
Our Commitment:
The Smyrna Vinings Steward is dedicated to highlighting the businesses that make our community special. We encourage you to explore the diverse culinary offerings in our neighborhood and support our local entrepreneurs.
🪙 The Rundown
Analyzing the local economy
The Future of Retail in Smyrna Vinings: Adapting to the Digital Age
The retail landscape is evolving rapidly. To thrive, local businesses must adapt to the digital age.
Key Strategies:
💻 E-commerce Integration: Establishing an online presence, including to reach a wider audience.
🏟️ Experiential Retail: Creating unique in-store experiences that cannot be replicated online.
🤝 Community Engagement: Building strong relationships with customers through social media and local events.
Expert Insight: Local businesses that embrace digital tools and focus on customer experience will be well-positioned for future success."
🛡️ Steward's Watch
Holding local businesses and officials accountable for our community's well-being.
Tacos La Villa's Recent Health Inspection
In the interest of public safety, the "Smyrna Vinings Steward" is reporting on the recent health inspection of Tacos La Villa (new location on S Cobb Dr).
According to records from the Georgia Department of Public Health, Tacos La Villa received a score of 79 on a recent routine inspection.
Key Findings:
The inspection report inspection report details several violations. These included:
“Observed ice machine with mold buildup inside of it in the main kitchen”
“Observed several items in the WIC and the counter that were holding above 41*F.( barbacoa meat, cooked chicken, refried beans, el pastor pork, chorizo, Beef Steak...)”
Understanding the Score:
The Georgia Department of Public Health uses a scoring system where a 100 represents a perfect score, and scores below 70 are considered failing. A score of 79 indicates that while some areas met health department standards, there were also areas of concern.
Public Safety Implications:
Food safety inspections are conducted to ensure that restaurants are following proper procedures to prevent foodborne illnesses. Violations such as improper food handling and unsanitary conditions can increase the risk of customers becoming sick.
Restaurant Response:
The "Smyrna Vinings Steward" reached out to Tacos La Villa for comment. As of the time of publication, they had not responded to our request for comment.
What You Can Do:
Review the full inspection report on the Georgia Department of Public Health website.
When dining out, consider checking a restaurant's recent inspection scores.
Report any concerns about food safety to the Georgia Department of Public Health.
Our Commitment:
The "Smyrna Vinings Steward" is committed to providing our community with information that promotes public safety and informed decision-making.
Disclaimer:
This report is based on information from the Georgia Department of Public Health's website. Inspection scores can change, and it is important to check the most recent information available.
🧬 Family Friendly
For the “Steward Littles”
Friday Night Feast? Kids Eat FREE at Varner's Tavern!
Ditch the dishes and bring the whole crew to Varner's Tavern this Friday!
Every Friday, kids eat FREE with the purchase of an adult entree. Let the little ones enjoy our delicious kids' menu while you relax and unwind.
It's the perfect way to kick off the weekend!
View the delicious menu → Varner’s
📣 Community Voices
What your neighbors care about
🏒 Atlantans consider bringing NHL stadium to the Cobb Galleria
“While proposals have emerged for venues in Forsyth County and Alpharetta, I believe that the Galleria area stands out as the most strategic and beneficial choice. Here’s why…”
→ Residents are discussing on the Cobb County subreddit
🎟️ Events
🎵 The Blanket Concert Series | 7PM, Mar 15 (ft. Mudcat)
Location: Reed House 3080 Atlanta Road
Smyrna, Georgia 30080Description: Step away from the constant buzz of technology and the demands of daily life, grab your yoga mat and book and come to The Leaf Unplugged.
View our full calendar here
Send your event info to: [email protected]
Support our local businesses! Visit the directory on our websites:
Quote of the Day
“In all things we should try to make ourselves be as grateful as possible. For gratitude is a good thing for ourselves, in a manner in which justice, commonly held to belong to others, is not. Gratitude pays itself back in large measure.”
Thanks for reading, and more importantly being a good steward of your community. We’ll see you next week!
— The Stewardship Group